Gingivitis is one of the most common forms of gum disease, so you might wonder whether you can catch it from someone else. After all, harmful bacteria in the mouth play an important role in the development of gingivitis. If those bacteria can be transferred through saliva, does that mean gum disease is contagious?

The answer is a little more complicated than a simple yes or no. While you can’t “catch” gingivitis like you would catch a cold, certain bacteria associated with gum disease can be transferred between people through saliva. Your own oral hygiene and risk factors play a major role in determining whether that exposure actually leads to gum disease.

Starting Invisalign treatment can be exciting. After all, you’re working toward a straighter smile without traditional braces. But when you first put in a new set of aligners, you may notice some pressure, tenderness, or general discomfort.

So, does Invisalign hurt? It shouldn’t cause severe pain, but some mild discomfort is common as your teeth begin adjusting to the gentle pressure of a new aligner. Fortunately, there are several ways to make the adjustment period more comfortable.